A powerful X2.7-class solar flare erupted Tuesday from sunspot AR4087, causing global radio blackouts. The flare was “still strong enough to affect wide areas of the earth,” mainly on the sunlit side, including parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The sudden burst of X-rays and UV radiation ionized the upper atmosphere, disrupting high-frequency radio communications. “The atmosphere became electrically charged,” as electrons were knocked loose from molecules, interfering with vital technology systems.
Experts are on alert as sunspot AR4087 is moving into direct view of Earth, increasing the risk of more solar flares in the coming days.
